FN Browning Model Hi-Power 9mm Luger 4 5/8″ Semi-Automatic Pistol, MFD 1981
SOLD FOR: $1000.01
LSB#: 220123PS017
Make: Browning; Made by FN in Belgium
Model: Hi Power
Serial Number: 245PZ87916
Year of Manufacture: 1981 (https://www.browning.com/support/date-your-firearm/hi-power-pistol.html)
Caliber: 9mm Luger
Action Type: Single Action Semi-Auto with Removable Magazine
Markings: The left side of the slide is marked “BROWNING ARMS COMPANY MORGAN, UTAH & MONTREAL P.Q.”. The right side of the slide is marked “MADE IN BELGIUM / BY FABRIQUE NATIONALE HERSTAL”. The barrel is marked “CAL. 9mm L. / 245PZ87916”. The front strap is marked “245PZ87916”. The right bow of the trigger guard is marked with a Belgian proof and a “* / Y” inspector’s mark, the left is marked “C”. The right side of the barrel lug is marked with a “* / Y” inspection mark and a Belgian proof mark and the left side with some small factory markings. The bottom of the firing pin housing is marked with a Belgian proof, “* / A” inspection mark, and small factory markings.
Barrel Length: 4 5/8”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a serrated ramped blade with a white inlay that is integral to a rectangular base that is fixed to the top of the slide. The rear sight is a fully adjustable square notch with a white outline aim guide that is dovetailed to the slide.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two-piece checkered Pachmayr Signature Series rubber. The main piece wraps around the front strap and screws over the back strap piece to secure it. There is some white discoloration throughout that is most notable on the right side. The checkering shows light wear and is generally sharp throughout. There are no rips or tears. Overall, the grips rate in about Very Good-Fine condition.
Type of Finish: Blue
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is gray and the rifling is well defined. There is scattered erosion in the bore.
Overall Condition: This pistol retains about 93% of its metal finish. The leading edges have slightly thinned. There are some scattered tiny nicks and faint scratches throughout though are most notable on the top of the slide. The controls show faint thinning as well. The serrations are sharp. The action has faint operational wear. The screw heads are lightly tool marked and the pins are clean. The markings are clear. Overall, this pistol is in about Fine condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The trigger is crisp. The magazine disconnect has been deactivated. There is hardly noticeable play between the slide and frame. We have not fired this pistol. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This pistol comes with four 13-round magazines. Three are blued and one is stainless. The mags show standard operational wear and have strong springs and intact feed lips.
Our Assessment: The Browning Hi-Power is a single-action, semi-automatic handgun available in the 9mm and .40 S&W calibers. It was based on a design by American firearms inventor John Browning, and completed by Dieudonné Saive at Fabrique Nationale (FN) of Herstal, Belgium. Browning died in 1926, several years before the design was finalized. FN Herstal initially named the design the “High Power”, which alludes to the 13-round magazine capacity, almost twice that of other designs at the time, such as the Luger or Colt M1911. This example was manufactured in Belgium in 1981. The commercial Hi Powers carry a reputation for being quality made pistols that perform well and are also sought after for their collector value. This beautiful example retains about 93% of its original finish and is in about Excellent condition. The bore is shootable and the trigger breaks crisp. Please see our photos and good luck!